Toxic Treats
This popular holiday sweet can cause hypoglycemia and liver failure in dogs.
What is xylitol?
The holiday plant that causes mild GI upset, not severe toxicity like many think.
What is poinsettia?
Cats love to play with this shiny decoration that can cause linear foreign bodies.
What is tinsel?
Common pain medication people take during the holidays that is extremely toxic to cats
What is acetaminophen?
Chocolate toxicity is mainly due to these two compounds.
What are theobromine and caffeine?
This holiday candy is dangerous due to methylxanthines.
What is chocolate?
This common holiday bouquet filler causes vomiting and diarrhea; sometimes known as “Christmas berry.”
What is holly?
These small colorful lights may lead to oral burns or GI upset if chewed.
What are Christmas lights?
This medication, often brought by guests, causes tremors, agitation, and seizures in dogs.
What are ADHD meds (amphetamines)?
Vomiting, PU/PD, and hyperthermia are classic signs of ingesting these small festive treats.
What are macadamia nuts?
These dried fruits found in fruitcake cause acute renal failure.
What are grapes/raisins/currants?
This plant’s berries can cause GI upset and cardiovascular issues.
What is mistletoe?
This common winter warmer causes ingestion of ethylene glycol.
What is antifreeze?
Alcohol left in cups after parties can cause these two major problems in pets.
What are CNS depression and hypoglycemia?
For xylitol, the first bloodwork value you're concerned about.
What is blood glucose?
Nut used in holiday baking that causes neurologic signs in dogs.
What are macadamia nuts?
This plant is extremely toxic to cats, causing acute kidney injury even with small ingestions.
What is a true lily?
These scented holiday items can cause respiratory irritation, burns, or liver toxicity in cats.
What are essential oils?
This cold/flu ingredient becomes dangerous to pets due to pseudoephedrine.
What is decongestant medication?
Treatment priority for grape/raisin toxicity.
What is aggressive IV fluids?
Dogs eating unbaked holiday bread dough are at risk for these two major complications.
What are alcohol poisoning (ethanol) and bloat/GI distension?
This winter plant can cause cardiac arrhythmias due to grayanotoxins.
What is azalea?
Snow globes can contain this highly toxic substance dangerous even in small amounts.
What is ethylene glycol?
Essential holiday item that contains zinc and can cause hemolytic anemia if chewed.
What are batteries?
Antidote used for ethylene glycol toxicity (two acceptable answers).
What is fomepizole or ethanol therapy?